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To Our Veterans…

I have elected to give a special emphasis to military veterans this year. In fact, I even designed a special lapel pin for Masons who are veterans. The pin is adorned with four military campaign ribbons. Starting at the top is World War II service, next is Korea, then Vietnam and finally Desert wars. I know that not every veteran served in one of these campaigns however, my wish is that every military veteran who is also a Mason will wear this pin with pride for having served our Nation. The design of the pin is to denote all who served from World War II until now. The campaign ribbons are to cover all military veterans from our oldest to our youngest.



Having served in the United States Navy myself, I know the many sacrifices that are made by our veterans. I served in Vietnam but was never in combat. I hold those who did serve in combat in the highest regard. They not only sacrificed being away from home and family, they experienced unpleasantness and hardships that we can’t even imagine.

I also want to address those who didn’t serve. When I ask men if they are a veteran when giving my veteran’s pin out, I often get a response like “no, unfortunately, I’m not” as they look at the floor. My Brothers, only a small number have served and although, I consider that an honor, it is not shameful if you did not serve. As Master Masons you are serving now. You are serving your God, your family, your community and your Lodge. You need not be ashamed of anything because you have not served in the military. I think this quote from the 32nd degree says it best.

“It is not given to all men to bear arms for his nation’s defense, but every man may cherish his country’s flag with a devoted love, may support his country’s laws with a willing obedience, and may so live day by day that the commonwealth shall be prospered through his industry, established through his fidelity, and honored through his integrity.”

I’m glad that the Veteran’s Pin has been so well received and that I see many brothers wearing it.

To our World War II veterans, thank you for saving our nation and our world from disaster. You are truly “The Greatest Generation.”

To our Korean War veterans, thank you for serving in a war that is often under recognized and for enduring the hardships you had to bear.

To our Vietnam veterans, Welcome home!

To those who have served in the Desert Wars, thank you for fighting to maintain peace and democracy around the world.

There have been countless other conflicts that I have not mentioned, some we don’t even know about. So, to all Veterans, thank you for all you have done and continue to do. God bless you all!


Fraternally,
Eric “Rick” Schau
Grand Master

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